The Erie Philharmonic and their audience members focused on giving back in a new way this holiday season, and their generosity will benefit the students of Strong Vincent Middle School (SVMS) this winter.
The orchestra participated in the United Way of Erie’s Community Schools Drive in the months of October, November, and December. Between their Board of Governors, staff, and audience members, over 3000 items were delivered to the students at SVMS on Tuesday, January 10, 2023. From sweatshirts to hats, gloves to socks, toiletries and more, these items will provide supplies to students so they can focus on simply being students without the worry of staying warm through Erie’s cold winter months.
The United Way’s drive was for all community schools in Erie County, but the orchestra focused on SVMS as it is the “home” of the Erie Junior Philharmonic. They worked with Katrina Byrd, the Community School Director for SVMS to ensure the items received would best benefit their students in need.
“It’s no secret that we appreciate our audience members when they’re filling the seats of the Warner Theatre, but our audience’s generosity to these students has surpassed our greatest expectations. People were bringing items to our offices, concerts at the Warner or churches, meetings, and more. We even had many families that are currently in the Junior Philharmonic participating too. We’re just blown away with everyone’s ability to give a little extra this holiday season.”
“Whether they’ve opened the school for concerts, rehearsals, events, or summer camps, [the administration and staff] have been generous with their time and resources in order for our Junior Philharmonic to truly feel supported at Strong Vincent and have a place to reside. We were looking for a way to give back, so jumping on board with the United Way’s drive seemed like the natural thing to do.”